Former Nigeria captain and coach Sunday Oliseh has expressed profound sadness following a wave of social media criticism directed at his debut as a colour commentator for the Africa Cup of Nations. The backlash, which emerged after Nigeria’s opening match against Tanzania, largely questioned his support for the Super Eagles and accused him of professional bias. Oliseh, a revered figure in Nigerian football, swiftly moved to defend his approach, asserting that his commentary was rooted in professional objectivity rather than any perceived animosity towards the national team.
The widespread condemnation across various social media platforms targeted Oliseh’s performance from multiple angles. Critics variously described his analysis as “disastrous,” “depressing,” and overtly negative. Specific accusations included being excessively critical of the Super Eagles, displaying insufficient knowledge of the Tanzanian squad, and presenting a bland, unrelatable style. The intensity of the online reaction underscored the passionate scrutiny Nigerian football fans apply to national team affairs.
A significant portion of the criticism centered on allegations of particular bias against star striker Victor Osimhen. Memes suggesting “Oliseh hates Osimhen” rapidly gained traction online in the aftermath of the match, amplifying the controversy. Furthermore, some supporters accused the former midfielder of disproportionately praising the Tanzanian team during the live broadcast, fueling perceptions of disloyalty to the Nigerian side.
In response to the outcry, Oliseh articulated a clear defence of his journalistic integrity and professional remit. He emphasized that his role as a pundit necessitated impartiality and an objective critique, regardless of his personal allegiances. “For nearly 40 years, I have dedicated my life and career to the progress of Nigerian football,” Oliseh stated, underscoring his deep-rooted commitment to the sport in his homeland.
Despite the professional demands for objectivity, Oliseh affirmed his emotional connection to the team. He clarified that while his professional duty mandated impartiality, his heart remained “firmly with the players and Coach Eric Chelle.” This distinction aimed to reconcile his analytical responsibilities with his enduring patriotism, a common challenge for former national athletes transitioning into media roles.
Oliseh’s illustrious career provides a robust backdrop to his claims of dedication. He was a pivotal member of the Nigerian squad that clinched Olympic gold in 1996 and the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994. His extensive playing career also saw him participate in two other AFCON tournaments (2000, 2002) and two FIFA World Cups, earning 55 caps and captaining the Super Eagles. He later returned to coach the national team in 2015, further cementing his profound ties to Nigerian football.
Addressing the perceived contradictions within the criticism, Oliseh highlighted a recent instance where he was accused of being “too supportive” of Nigeria’s coaching staff. He noted that to now face accusations of the opposite extreme suggested a fundamental misunderstanding of his role as an analyst. This pointed to the often-polarized nature of fan expectations and the difficulty of maintaining a balanced perspective in the public eye.
Oliseh framed his analytical approach as “constructive honesty,” a tool he believes is vital for improvement. He asserted that such honesty should not be misconstrued as dislike, but rather as a genuine desire to see the nation’s football endeavors succeed. This philosophy underpins the critical appraisal he offers, aiming to foster growth rather than simply celebrate.
Reaffirming his unwavering loyalty to the national team, Oliseh concluded his statement with a plea for unity. He urged Nigerian supporters to set aside the recent controversy and instead rally behind the players currently competing in Morocco. His call for collective support reflects a broader desire to foster a positive environment for the team as they navigate the challenging AFCON tournament.
The Africa Cup of Nations, a continental showpiece, invariably ignites intense passion and scrutiny among football-loving nations. Nigeria, with its rich footballing heritage and high expectations, often experiences this fervor most acutely. Commentators, especially those with deep ties to the national team, frequently find themselves navigating a delicate balance between objective analysis and the fervent desires of the fan base.
The transition from playing or coaching to punditry often presents unique challenges, particularly for figures like Oliseh who carry significant national recognition. The expectation from fans can sometimes lean towards unwavering patriotism, making objective critique, even when constructive, a contentious endeavor. This dynamic highlights the evolving landscape of sports media and fan engagement in the digital age.
Social media platforms have amplified fan voices, creating immediate and often unfiltered feedback loops for public figures. While offering direct engagement, these platforms can also become conduits for intense criticism and misinformation, as evidenced by the rapid spread of memes and strong opinions following Oliseh’s commentary. Managing this digital scrutiny has become an integral part of public life for sports personalities.
Official Statement
I am deeply saddened by the recent suggestions on social media that my analysis of the Super Eagles’ performance against Tanzania stems from a lack of support for the team.
For nearly 40 years, I have dedicated my life and career to the progress of Nigerian…– Sunday Oliseh (@SundayOOliseh) December 24, 2025
